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The holiday shopping season seems to have started even earlier than usual this year, which I suppose is an attempt by retailers to REALLY
cash in on the 2012 season. As gift givers, we often overlook the opportunity to bestow healthful, foodie gifts to those on our list. However, this is the perfect time to tell those on your list that you are putting health as a priority, and such gifts are not ones that people often will buy for themselves. Here are some that I identified for this year. Feel free to comment below on any ones that you’ll be giving this year.

This gorgeous gold line is the creme de la creme of bakeware. Despite its physical heaviness, the Goldtouch items offer superb quality for any of your baking needs, without the need of sprays or parchment. It just takes one cake that’s made in a Goldtouch, before you’re converted. Price: $36-99. Go to www.williams-sonoma.com (Image: http://www.williams-sonoma.com)

3. Platypus Water Bottles

The unspoken definition of a stocking stuffer is that it is: small, inexpensive, cute, and useful. Platypus water bottles fit the stocking stuffer criteria. What is it about these water bottles that differentiate them from the countless BPA-free canteens lining the top shelf of your cupboard? Easy: Platypus offer “Softbottle” technology, which makes them gumby-like. Roll it up and pop it even your tiniest purse or bag and fill it up whenever, wherever. According to its website, Playtpus softbottles are 80% lighter than conventional canteens. This is hydration that doesn’t weigh you down, and it’s for the person on your list that complains about carrying around a water bottle (and even those who don’t). Visit their website for information about retailers, such as LL Bean and REI. (Image: http://www.cascadedesigns.com)

5. Smitten Kitchen Cookbook

You can never go wrong gifting with a beautiful cookbook, because they are like black pants: you can never have too many. Currently, I am using my Post-Its to tab recipes in Smitten Kitchen’s first cookbook, filled with the quirky anecdotal writing of Deb Perelman, complete with 105 of her hand-picked favorite recipes. These recipes are unique, however normal. You don’t need fancy, or expensive, ingredients to whip up her meals. The images are beautiful and mouthwatering. She makes you want to do a better job with your own cookery. Purchase on amazon or your favorite bookstore. Price: $35. (Image: http://www.smittenkitchen.com)

I have to agree 110% with you on the Williams and Sonoma bakeware! I discovered it last year and have been lusting over more pieces! It is very heavy, but oh, so wonderful for baking! I have the 13×9 pan which is also wonderful for baking chicken, lasagane…..Love, love, love it!!!